The Adrian Ambulance Service is in need of EMT’s. They are currently running with a crew of 9 and ideally they would like to have their numbers around 15 to ensure coverage. With the numbers where they are at right now it is very difficult to cover the hours. If Adrian Ambulance Service does not gain some new members, they are looking at possibly having to end the service. They average about 125 calls per year, closing their doors would add on abut a ½ hour to the response time, as Luverne or Worthington would have to answer the call. Right now there are some shifts they have not been able to cover so calls are taken out of Luverne or Worthington. If there are enough uncovered shifts per month the state will shut the service down.
EMT training is mostly done online with reading, reviewing and some assignments. Trainees spend two Saturday’s a month for four months attending class and learning the skills. There is then a state exam that has to be passed. If you have an RN license you would just need to take a two day refresher course and take the test. The Adrian Ambulance Service will pay for the cost of the class and will also cover all of the mileage if the class is out of town. Usually, the classes are held in Jackson or Worthington on weekends. If those times do not work, there are classes available in Sioux Falls during the week and evening hours as well. A First Responder class will be held in Adrian beginning November 22. This will be held every Tuesday and Thursday for 15 nights. First Responders can drive the ambulance and help out at the call, but are not allowed to administer medication. An EMT is allowed to administer medication and do an EKG.
EMT’s and First Responders are compensated while on call, during weeknights you are compensated $2.50 per hour and $5.00 per hour on weekends, you also receive $30 per call. The length of shifts are 12 hours long, but they are flexible in finding coverage if someone can’t work a full shift. If you are from out of town, the Adrian Ambulance Service has a living area set up within the Fire/Ambulance hall.
If you have any interest or questions, please contact Brenda Bullerman at 507-920-3544 or Ray Bullerman at 507-920-5143. Brenda is an instructor for the EMT classes and Ray for the First Responders course. They can help with any questions about the course as well.
